Rotating Dovetail Jaw Face Connection for Materials Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing materials testing systems face challenges with jaw face connection mechanisms that are either difficult to install and remove, require tools, or have loose parts that can be lost, and do not provide repeatable or secure rotating jaw face positioning.
Innovation Solution
A rotating dovetail connection mechanism with a spring-loaded ball plunger that allows for secure sliding and rotation of jaw faces without auxiliary parts, using a tongue and groove design with a detent and cross aperture for precise alignment and retention, and a sloped surface for easy insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a rigid dovetail connection is used, then the jaw face location is repeatable and installation is easy, but jaw face rotation is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a rigid fixed connection to a dynamic rotating connection. The jaw face is designed to rotate within the grip body along a circular path, allowing the connection to adapt between fixed positioning and rotational movement. This enables the jaw face to maintain repeatable location when needed while also providing rotation capability for compensating specimen thickness variations and elastic deformation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If external pins with O-rings are used, then jaw face rotation is enabled, but safety issues arise from protruding pins that may be ejected or entangled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the extraction principle by removing the external pin and O-ring components from the system. Instead of using protruding external pins that can be ejected or entangled, the rotation mechanism is integrated within the grip body itself. The jaw face rotates along a circular path defined by internal features of the grip body, eliminating the need for external retaining components and their associated safety hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the nesting principle by integrating the rotation mechanism within the grip body structure. The circular rotation path is defined by internal features nested within the grip body, and the jaw face rotates within this internal space. This nested arrangement eliminates external protruding parts while maintaining the rotation capability, as the rotation mechanism is contained within the grip body itself.
3Adaptability or versatility
If internal pins and apertures are used, then jaw face rotation is allowed, but pins may be lost and installation requires experienced users or additional persons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the extraction principle by removing the separate pin and aperture components from the system. Instead of using detachable pins that can be lost and require manual manipulation for installation, the rotation mechanism is integrated into the grip body structure. The jaw face connects directly to the grip body through a built-in circular rotation path, eliminating the need for separate pins and simplifying installation to a single-person, tool-free operation.
4Ease of manufacture
If set screws and grooves are used, then installation is simple and inexpensive, but jaw faces rotate in all directions and tool is required for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the asymmetry principle by designing an asymmetric circular rotation path within the grip body. Unlike symmetric set screw and groove connections that allow rotation in all directions, the circular path is defined by specific asymmetric features that constrain rotation to a controlled circular motion only. This asymmetric design provides precise rotation control while maintaining manufacturing simplicity, as the circular path can be created through standard machining operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables easy, tool-free installation and removal of jaw faces with secure and repeatable positioning, reducing the risk of lost parts and improving operational simplicity and safety in materials testing.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded ball plunger that allows for secure sliding and rotation of jaw faces
Data Source
AI summary
A rotating dovetail connection is provided in order to attach jaw faces to grips in materials testing. The connection includes a machined tongue on the jaw face and a corresponding groove on the jaw face holder. A ball plunger within the holder serves to center the jaw face and to retain the jaw face in the holder. The jaw faces can be installed an removed without the use of tools or loose parts. The rotating dovetail facilitates a secure connection between the jaw face and the grip while allowing the jaw faces to rotate.